"The Ugly Sin"

"They that hate me whisper together against me: against me do thy devise my hurt." (Psalms 41:7) The best way to describe what love is not, is to show the actions of those that sow discord and speak ill of others behind their backs. If you really want to love others, as the Bible clearly says that we are to do, then this practice of backbiting, spreading rumors, or devising hurt against someone should have no part of who you are, and you should have no part in any of it; that includes receiving any of it, such as when someone wants to share gossip with you, you need to quickly stop them, or stop your ears, because it is an ugly sin that does nothing to edify the body, but instead, it places images of hate in the hearts and minds of all that participate in it. The sad thing is, many that participate in the practice of gossip and backbiting do not feel as though they are sinning; many actually think that they are doing some good by their actions, as though if enough people know, maybe something good might come out of it; although, the intentions of many hearts in the process are not looking for good, but are looking for judgment and punishment more than anything else. It is almost like being a part of a good Soap Opera, only instead of actors on a television, you get to see it live; actually, I don't know of any good Soap Operas, and I am really glad my wife was never into watching them, because they do nothing but spew different forms of deceit and conduct of betrayal among friends and families. Paul gives us some very good counsel regarding those things that we put into our minds, as he says in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Think pure and lovely thoughts about one another, that is pretty much what Paul is saying; because when we practice that, those rumors and gossips will not have place in our lives, no will we have any desire to hear of them. Just say no, is what must be done; just as it works for drugs, it is the same for backbiting; you have got to let them know that you do not want to hear it, and they will let it be known that you don't want to receive it... "But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; how that they told you there should mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hatting even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." (Jude 17-25)